Soaked rugs, damaged walls, warped flooring and ruined furniture are only the beginning of what facility executives in flooded areas across the nation are experiencing. Flooding can happen anywhere and can be caused by heavy rains, severe storms, poor drainage, plumbing issues, and other water-related issues. The key is to be prepared and take quick action when a flood disaster occurs.

Rainbow International offers these general tips on being prepared before, during and after a flood:

Before…
 • Check with an insurance agent about flood insurance and prepare an inventory of furniture and valuables.
 • Put together an emergency plan and make sure everyone in the facility knows what to do.
 • If you live in a high-risk flood area, prepare an emergency kit, including items such as essential toiletries, bottled water and non-perishable food items, flashlights, batteries, blankets, first aid kit, disposable cleaning cloths and insect repellent.
 • Repair any known leaks immediately. Waiting to do repairs often results in flooding that causes structure or mold damage.

During…
 • Watch the weather for high amounts of rain in a short time period or tropical storms headed your way. Listen carefully to advisories, follow directions from local officials, and evacuate if needed.
 • Move special furniture, area rugs, computers and other electronics and essential paperwork to a higher level to keep them dry.
 • If flooding is about to reach your facility, shut off the electricity, gas, and water. However, never touch electrical sources if you are standing in water.
 • Never walk or drive through high floodwaters.

After…
 • Act quickly. Report damage to your insurance agent or company as soon as possible to begin processing the claim immediately so restoration process can begin.
 • Take photos of the damaged areas both inside and outside to document the damage.
 • Never turn on the electrical power to the facility until a professional makes sure it’s safe to do so.
 • Make sure to use proper equipment for cleanup and/or contact a restoration professional to handle the job.

“The number-one goal in a flooding disaster is for people to stay safe,” said Rainbow International President Mark Welstead.  “Then, it’s important to act quickly to begin the cleanup and restoration process to prevent further damage.”